Ball Game Equipment Kit, Field Layouts, and Methods for Playing the Ball Game Thereof

ABSTRACT

A ball game equipment kit includes a ball, at least one launch, a bat, at least one goal, and a C-area. The field layouts include a layout 1 for team play, a layout 2 for individual, small group or team play, and a layout 3 for water play. A field layout includes at least one goal line, at least one batting line, at least one batting circle, at least one batting area, and at least one goal location to define a field for the equipment kit to be positioned. There are three methods for using the ball game equipment kit, including methods to utilize the equipment kit and layout 1, methods to utilize the equipment kit and layout 2, and methods to utilize the equipment kit and layout 3 on water.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/764,953, filed on Aug. 22, 2018.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a ball game equipment kit, field layouts and methods for playing the game thereof. The ball game equipment kit includes a ball, at least one launch, a bat, at least one goal, and a C-area.

Description of the Related Art

The present invention is a new sport. It was created to meet the demands of professional sport markets, the demand of the advertising industry, and the recreational demand of the consumer markets.

The sport markets always demand something new and exciting. The existing sports are not perfect, nor fully satisfying the current markets. A number of examples are discussed below.

Regarding soccer, quite often, the midfield of a soccer game tends to be boring, because a soccer ball is difficult to control by foot. It requires outstanding skills to break through the defense. Also, it is common for soccer to have a slow rate of scoring. The sport of the present invention can facilitate a game with high scoring rate, and an exciting middle field, as illustrated by the field layout shown in FIG. 14.

Both basketball and handball have comparably short and brief mid-field. The intensive competition occurs at the boundaries. In the game of the present invention, players compete for the ball on a larger scale of a grass field.

Baseball does not have a mid-field. Neither does it have two groups of rival players, confronting and chasing the ball at the same spot at the same time. The sport of the present invention has two teams, similar to the size of team in soccer, that play together.

Rugby and American football have too much body contact that could cause injuries and turn some viewers away. The sport of the present invention makes body contact unnecessary, to win the game. The present invention has rules to prevent body contact.

Currently no existing sport allows a game to be played anywhere. The sport of the present invention can be played in a stadium, at a beach, or even on water.

The sport of the present invention is easy to play and can be played by players of all ages.

None of the existing sports mentioned above, nor any other existing sports, could 100% satisfy the current markets.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One primary objective of the present invention is to provide a ball game equipment kit, methods to utilize the kit, a field layout for individual or small groups to play the game, a field layout for teams to play the game, a field layout for playing the game on water, methods to use the layouts, and rules to play the game.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a ball game that is easy to play and can be played by players of all ages.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a ball game equipment kit that includes a ball, a launch, a bat, a goal. The ball game equipment kit may also be configured to include a C-area, a basket with a marine drone, a floating base, or a combination of these items.

Another object of the present invention is to provide three different field layouts, which may utilize the equipment kit differently. The three field layouts include a layout for team games, a layout for singles or small groups games, and a layout for playing on water. Each field layout may be configured according to the number of players and field area being used.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a ball game that challenges the strength, the team work, the endurance and the accuracy of the players, including G-players (trained dogs, Grey Haunt or other breeds), while providing entertainment for viewers.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a ball game that is distinctively different from any existing sports, The sport of the present invention enables G-players (trained dogs, Grey Haunt or other breeds) to show how fast, how accurate, and how cooperative the dogs can be.

Another object of the present invention is to provide field layouts for team games or for singles and small groups that includes a C-area for G-players. The C-areas are fenced areas for G-players to defend the goals.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a middle field of the ball game that has intensive competitions. According to the rules of the team field layout, when the offensive team possesses the ball inside of a batting circle, all defensive players must leave the batting circle and stay outside of the batting area. Outside of the batting areas, the offensive players can run with the ball (for up to 3 seconds), or dribble, or pass the ball to his or her team. Therefore, the defensive team has to work hard to stop the offensive team before they enter a batting circle.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a ball game equipment kit with a ball that is smaller than the handball ball, and larger than the baseball. The ball is about two thirds of the size of an average person's palm. The ball is easier to control and pass. The offensive team has a better chance to penetrate the defense, than any other existing sports. The game can move very fast. However, the defensive team has a chance to intercept the ball, when the ball is dribbled or travelling in the air.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a ball game, when the offensive team is shooting, all of the defensive players stay outside the batting area(s). The offensive player can choose which one of the goals to shoot the ball towards. This process makes the shooting fantastically challenging and intriguing at the same time.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a ball game equipment kit that utilizes a launch to raise the game off of the fields or playing surface.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a ball game that has an equipment kit that can be set up conveniently on a wide range of locations. The game of the present invention can be played in a stadium, a park, a beach, a back yard, or on water.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a ball game that is configured to avoid the disadvantages of the existing sports, fun to play, and an exciting and popular sport.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a perspective view of a launch.

FIG. 1A illustrates one embodiment of a lateral view of a ball.

FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of a perspective view of the top part of a launch.

FIG. 3 illustrates one embodiment of a perspective view of a goal that has a vertical hoop.

FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of lateral view of a goal that has a rotating vertical hoop.

FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of a lateral view of a goal that has a horizontal hoop.

FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of a perspective view of a goal that has horizontal hoop.

FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of a lateral view of a goal with a board.

FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a perspective section view of the post and board.

FIG. 9 illustrates one embodiment of a perspective view of the back of the goal board and the ball net.

FIG. 10 illustrates one embodiment of a perspective view of the goal with an inflatable base.

FIG. 10A illustrates one embodiment of a perspective view of the goal with a non-inflatable rigid buoyant base.

FIG. 11 illustrates one embodiment of a perspective view of a bat.

FIG. 12 illustrates one embodiment of a lateral view of the head and a handle a bat.

FIG. 13 illustrates one embodiment of a perspective view of a drone with a basket.

FIG. 14 illustrates a field layout of the ball game for team play.

FIG. 15 illustrates a field layout of the ball game for individual or small group play.

FIG. 16 illustrates a field layout of the ball game for play on water.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Ball Game Equipment Kit

As illustrated in FIGS. 1-13, the ball game kit includes a ball 10, at least one launch 20, a bat 30, at least one goal 40, and a C-area 50.

The ball 10 can be tethered to the launch 20, if the game is recreationally played on water or for training, or when the launch is set-up on board of a boat.

Ball

As shown in FIG. 1A, the ball 10 is made of rubber or other suitable elastic or resilient material. The ball 10 has a shape that is round or spherical. The ball 10 has a smooth surface. The ball has an interior that is filled with a high-pressure air. The pressure of the high-pressure air can be any suitable pressure, for example in a range between 0.2 to 0.4 kg per square centimeters. The ball 10 has a diameter that is smaller than a length of an average person's hand (the palm plus five fingers without a gap). The ball 10 is easy to hold, pass and dribble. The ball 10 dribbles particularly well on a field installed with the synthetic coverings.

When the ball 10 bounces on natural grass surfaces, the ball deflects in unpredictable directions, and increases the chance for opponent players to intercept the ball. Therefore, the game becomes more unpredictable when the game is be played on natural grass surfaces.

Launch

FIG. 1 illustrates a launch 20, which is configured to lift and support the ball 10 at a predetermined height. Lifting the ball off the ground helps to improve aiming and batting the ball and improves accuracy when attempting a goal. The launch 20 lifts the game off the ground, off the water, off the beach sand, enabling the game to be played on various fields. The launch 20 has an adjustable height. The ball game can be played using one launch or a predetermined number of launches.

The launch 20 includes a ball support 22 suitable to hold the ball 10 in a predetermined position, a base 24, and a height adjustment part 26 connected between the ball support 22 and the base 24. The ball support 22 and the height adjustment part 26 are made of a resilient rubber, a plastic, or other resilient materials, so they are bendable when the bat strikes the launch, and they can bounce back to the previous position when accidentally struck by the bat. The height adjustment part 26 selectively adjusts a height of the ball support 22 between a lower position and a higher position. The ball support 22 and the height adjustment part 26 can be replaced as needed.

The ball support 22 can be of any suitable shape to support the ball 10 when batting. The ball support 22 has a concaved surface with a diameter corresponding to a shape of the ball 10. The ball support 22 is made of an elastic or resilient material to provide flexibility when the ball 10 is hit by the bat 30.

The base 24 should be relatively heavy, with an variation of weight configured to withstand impact and stabilize the launch, when the bat hits the ball and accidentally hits the launch. The launch 20 particularly needs a heavy base 24, when it is windy or when the game is played on water, with the launch being located on board of a boat. The base 24 can be a circular, oval, square, rectangle, or polygonal body, or the base can have a plurality of tripod, foldable or fixed legs.

The height adjustment part 26 has at least two poles including a first pole 262 slideably inserted into a second pole 264, the first pole 262 is connected to the ball support 22, and the second pole 264 is connected to the base 24. The height adjustment part 26 is secured at a selected height by using a fastener to fix the first pole 262 relative to the second pole 264. The fastener can be a screw 266, a pin, or any suitable fastening device. The first pole 262 of the height adjustment part 26 has a flexible portion, being elastic or resilient material, to allow the launch 20 to have flexibility when the ball 10 is hit.

The launch 20 has a leveling mechanism 28 that enables the ball support 22 to maintain an up-right position when the launch 20 is located on uneven ground. The leveling mechanism 28 can be located in the height adjustment part 26, in the base 24, or between the leveling mechanism 28 and the base 24. The leveling mechanism 28 can be any device that allows the launch 20 to maintain an upright level position.

The base 24 includes a base concave surface 242 located in a top surface thereof, and the height adjustment part 26 includes an adjusting ball 268. The adjusting ball 268 is inserted into the base concave surface 242 to provide a mechanism to level the ball support 22 when the base 24 is located on the uneven ground. The base concave surface 242 has a semi dish-shaped concave. The base concave surface 242 holds the adjusting ball 268 very firmly. The adjusting ball 268 is connected to the second pole 264 of the height adjustment part 26, and allows the launch 20 to be adjusted to maintain a vertical position when placed on surfaces of various terrains.

FIG. 2 illustrates a launch 20′ having a ball support 22′ for use when playing the game on water, the concaved surface of the ball support 22′ is formed by a plurality of arms 222 extending outwardly, and each arm 222 of the plurality of arms 222 having a sphere 224 connected to an outer end thereof. In windy conditions, the plurality of spheres 224 at the end of the plurality of arms 222 can grab and hold the ball 10 in a stable manner. The plurality of spheres 224 can be small dish-shaped plates. The height adjustment part 26′ has at least two poles including a first pole 262′ slideably inserted into a second pole 264′ for adjusting a height. The first pole 262′ is connected to the ball support 22′, and the second pole 264 is connected to a base. The height adjustment part 26′ is secured at a selected height by using a fastener to fix the first pole 262′ relative to the second pole 264′. The fastener can be a screw 266′, a pin, or any suitable fastening device. The ball support 22′ and the height adjustment part 26′ are made of bendable and elastic materials, so they exert the minimum resistance and the maximum resilience when the ball is batted off the launch, which is set up on board of a boat or a floating apparatus.

For a field that is flat and smooth, the launch 20 would be a simple version, wherein the height adjustment part 26 would connect directly to the base 24 without the leveling mechanism 28. The base 24 would not have the base concave surface 242 and the height adjustment part 26 would not have the adjusting ball 268.

Bat

FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate one embodiment of the bat 30 that is for use of batting the ball 10 off the launch 20 in an attempt to score points by hitting the ball 10 into the goal 40. The bat 30 is made of timber, metal, alloy composites, or other suitable material. The weight of the bat can be any suitable weight to cause sufficient swing impact on the ball 10. The bat 30 can be any suitable length. The bat 30 can have a length in a range of 0.66 m to 1.2 m.

The bat 30 has a striking end 32, a middle portion 34, and a handle 36. The striking end 32 is curved for aesthetical purpose and has a curved portion 322 and a head panel face 324. The curved portion 322 is adjacent to the head panel face 324. The head panel face 324 is a straight flat surface. The head panel face 324 has a size that ranges around the size of an average person's hand with no gaps between the five fingers. The head panel face 324 has a flat and smooth face that increases the chance of batting the ball at the right point, and with a correct right angle. When the bat 30 hits the ball 10, creating a strong and effective impact, the ball 10 can travel in the air with a high speed. The head panel face 324 narrows down to the middle portion 34. The middle portion 34 is a round tube shaped part located between and connecting the striking end 32 and the handle 36. The handle 36 is wrapped in a rubber cover 362 having extrusion dots 364 for a better grip.

Goals

There are five types of goals 40, 40′, 40A, 40A′, 40 described below, each of them functions differently. The goals 40, 40′, 40A, 40A′, 40 are utilized in different games to suit a layout or/and field. The goals 40, 40′, 40A, 40A′, 40 are made of light weight, rigid, and durable metal, alloy, or other suitable material. The goals 40, 40′, 40A, 40A′, 40 each have a hoop 42, 42′, 42″ positioned in a position selected from a fixed vertical position, a rotating vertical position, a fixed horizontal position, and a rotating horizontal position. The goals 40, 40′, 40A, 40A′, 40 each have a goal base 44, 44′, 44A, 44A′, 44B that should be relatively heavy to support the board during play and windy conditions.

a) Goal with a Board:

As shown in FIGS. 7-9, the goal 40B has a hoop board 424, which is made of acrylic, metal (composites), or translucent tempered glass. The translucency of the hoop board 424, if the game requires, makes it possible for an audience to see through the hoop board 424 during a game from any angle in the stadium.

As shown in FIGS. 7-9, The hoop board 424 is supported and fixed to two posts 49. FIG. 8 is a section view illustrating a side view of the hoop board 424 being fixed to the two posts 49. The two posts 49 have a groove 491 supporting the hoop board 424. The depth of the groove 491 varies to fit the size of the hoop board 424. The two posts 49 can be connected to a goal base 44B or installed in the ground.

There may be supporting posts (not shown in the drawing) in the back of the hoop board 424, to form two triangles integrating the two vertical posts in the front. The posts 49 and the goal base 44B are wrapped with sponge protective coverings, to prevent any potential injury.

The hoop board 424 has a hoop 42B extending through a bottom part of the hoop board 424 and having an open interior 422B, or through hole. The dimensions of the hoop board 424 may change, and the hoop 42B can be located in a center of the hoop board 424. When the hoop 42B is positioned away from the center of the hoop board 424, the degree of difficult is increased because aiming and scoring a goal are more difficult.

The ball 10 must travel through the hoop 42B and into a net 46 to score a goal. The net 46 is attached to the hoop 42B or hoop board 424 and loosely hangs from the hoop 42B. The net 46 is made of soft, light and thin fiber lines. The net 46 can have an open end to let the ball 10 pass through or a closed end to hold the ball 10. The net 46 makes it obvious when a goal is being scored.

To play a game according to field layout 1, as shown in FIG. 14, there are 4 goals 40B (although other goals could be used) located on end of the field. The hoop board 424 can bounce the balls 10 that failed to score, so that the balls are kept on the field to continue playing the game. Therefore, the game is sped up with fast flows and better efficiency.

The height and diameter of the hoop 42B varies, depending to the game requirement, and depending on whether G-players (trained dogs) being used in the game. When G-players are used in the game, the height of the hoop varies depending on an average height that the G-players can jump to reach the ball 10.

b) Vertical Goal without a Board

FIG. 3 illustrates the goal 40 with a ball 10 flying through the hoop 42. The goal 40 is configured to suit the game of field layout 2. The goal 40 does not have a board and be configured with or without a net and the hoop 42 is positioned in a vertical orientation. The hoop 42 has an open interior 422 having a cross section having a shape selected from a group consisting of a circle, oval, square, rectangle, polygon, or other suitable shape.

The open interior 422 of the hoop 42 has a predetermined diameter. The diameter of the hoop 42 can be many times the diameter of the ball 10 or slightly larger than the diameter of the ball 10. The diameter of the hoop 42 can be adjusted to decrease or increase the difficulty of the game. The diameter of the hoop 42 can be in a range from 0.3 meter to 1.0 meter.

The goal 40 has a goal base 44 and a goal height adjustment part 46 connected between the goal base 44 and the hoop 42. The goal height adjustment part 46 has at least two goal poles including a first goal pole 462 slideably inserted into a second goal pole 464, the first goal pole 462 is connected to the hoop 42, and the second goal pole 464 is connected to the goal base 44. The first goal pole 462 and the second goal pole 464 of the goal height adjustment part 46 have a predetermined number of holes located at different heights. The height of the goal 40 can be adjusted by inserting screws 466 or pins into the corresponding holes of the first goal pole 462 and the second goal pole 464 and the hoop 42 can be adjusted to different heights to meet the game requirement. The goal 40 can have a single goal pole rather than the goal height adjustment part 46, so that the goal has a fixed height.

The goal base 44 should be comparatively heavy to stabilize the hoop. The diameter of the hoop 42, as well as the length and diameter of the first goal pole 462 and the second goal pole 464, may vary, depending on the game and field requirements.

c) Electronic Vertical Goal

The goal 40′, shown in FIG. 4, is similar to the goal shown in FIG. 3, however, the goal 40′ has a motor 80 installed in a goal base 44′ that rotates a shaft 82 inside the first goal pole 462′ and the second goal pole 464′ of the goal height adjustment part 46. The shaft 82 is entirely placed inside of the first goal pole 462′ and the second goal pole 464′ with one end of the shaft 82 being connecting to the motor 80 and another end of the shaft 82 being connected to a hoop 42′ with an open interior 422′.

The motor 80 may be powered by a battery or any other AC or DC power source. The motor 80 has an electrical speed control unit, which can be purchased in the market. The motor 80 rotates the shaft 82 at a predetermined fixed or variable speed. The rotation of the hoop challenges the players when aiming to score a goal, hence raising the game to a higher level.

d) Horizontal Goal:

FIG. 5 illustrates a horizontal goal 40A. The goal 40A has a hoop 42A with an open interior 422A that is positioned in a fixed or adjustable horizontal position. To score a goal, a player needs to bat a bottom part of the ball 10, so the ball can travel in a trajectory that falls through into the hoop 42A.

The goal 40A has a goal height adjustment part 46A connected between the goal base 44A and the hoop 42A. The goal height adjustment part 46A has at least two goal poles including a first goal pole 462A slideably inserted into a second goal pole 464A, the first goal pole 462A is connected to the hoop 42A, and the second goal pole 464A is connected to the goal base 44A. The first goal pole 462A has a 90 degree bend to position the hoop 42A in a horizontal orientation. The first goal pole 462A and the second goal pole 464A of the goal height adjustment part 46A have a predetermined number of holes located at different heights. The height of the goal 40A can be adjusted by inserting screws 466 or pins into the corresponding holes of the first goal pole 462A and the second goal pole 464A and the hoop 42A can be adjusted to different heights to meet the game requirement. The goal 40A can have a single goal pole rather than the goal height adjustment part 46, so that the goal has a fixed height. The goal base 44A shall be covered by sponge protections.

e) Electrical Horizontal Goal:

An electrical horizontal goal 40A′, shown in FIG. 6, is similar to the goal 40A shown in FIG. 5, however, the goal 40A′ has a motor 80A installed in a goal base 44A′ that rotates the hoop 42A′ along a horizontal axis. The goal 40A′ has a hoop 42A′ with an open interior 422A′, a first goal pole 462A′, and a second goal pole 464A′. A spherical metal joint 88 is connected between the first goal pole 462A′ and the second goal pole 464A′. The first goal pole 462A′ is located in a horizontal orientation and the second goal pole 464A′ is located in a vertical orientation position with one end connected to the goal base 44A′. The motor 80A rotates a vertical shaft 84 that is connected to a horizontal shaft 86 by pair of bevel gears 90, 92 that transfer the rotation from vertical to horizontal. The vertical shaft 84 is connected to the motor and the horizontal shaft 86 is connected to the hoop 42A. The vertical shaft 84 is located in the second goal pole 464A′ and the horizontal shaft 86 is located in the first goal pole 462A′. The bevel gears 90, 92 are located in the spherical metal joint 88.

The motor 80A may be powered by a battery or any other AC or DC power source. The motor 80A has an electrical speed control unit, which can be purchased in the market. The motor 80A rotates the vertical shaft 84, the horizontal shaft 86, and the hoop 42A′ at a predetermined fixed or variable speed. The rotation of the hoop challenges the players when aiming to score a goal, hence raising the game to a higher level.

Basket and the Drone

FIG. 13 illustrates a drone 70 transporting a basket 74. The drone 70 can be a marine drone having at least one float 72. The drone 70 moves the basket 74 using a tethering member 78. A connecting device 76 is used to connect the tethering member 78 to the drone 70. The connecting device 76 can be a threaded member, hooks, on any other suitable connecting members. The tethering member 78 can be a pole, cable, rope, or other suitable device capable of supporting the basket 74. When the drone is landing, there would be some assistance on the ground. The tethering member 78 has a predetermined length that is suitable for the field and weather conditions.

The basket 74 and the drone 70 are configured to suit a game played on water. There can be 4 floats 72 installed to keep the drone 70 safe and provide stability. The marine drone is already in market for purchase. The basket 74 has four sides that have thin grids with holes. The holes have a diameter that is smaller than a diameter of the ball 10. The basket 74, the connecting device 76, and the tethering member 78 are made of light weighted alloy or reinforced plastic. To retrieve the ball 10 from the water back to the boat, the drone 70 is remotely controlled to submerge the basket 74 in the water, position the basket 74 underneath the ball 10, and lift the basket 74 with the ball, and return the basket 74 and ball 10 to the desired location. The water leaks out of the basket 74.

Inflatable Floating Base

FIG. 10 illustrates an inflatable floating base 60, which is configured to be used in a water game. The inflatable floating base 60 is connected to a goal base 44C of a goal 40C. The inflatable floating base 60 has an inflatable base 62 made of rubber or water proof fiber. The inflatable base 62 has a fill valve 622, a hollow interior 624, and four hooks 626. The inflatable base 62 has a cross section selected from a group consisting of a circle, oval, square, rectangle, and polygon.

A top of the inflatable base 62 is glued to a fiberglass board 628. The fiberglass board 628 is flat and rigid and has a shape and center hole corresponding with the cross section of the inflatable base 62. The four hooks 626 are connected to a corresponding corner of the inflatable base 62. The goal 40C has four goal base hooks 626′ connected to the goal base 44C. The inflatable base 62 and the goal 40C are connected together by using ropes 66 to connect the four hooks 626 of the inflatable base 62 to the four goal base hooks 626′ of the goal 40C.

The four corners of a bottom of the inflatable base 62 are connected to a corresponding anchor 68 in the water. The inflatable floating base 60 is configured to have different heights and dimensions to suit the game requirements.

Rigid Buoyant Base

FIG. 10A illustrates a rigid buoyant base 60′, which is configured to be used in a water game. Some areas of an ocean or lake may allow for a permanent deploy of these rigid buoyant base 60′, which can be used as a diving platform or resting mini-island in public accessible areas. The rigid buoyant base 60′ will be anchored in water. Its size will be variable. The shape, surface, and colors of the rigid buoyant base 60′ can be designed to meet the game requirement, while fitting into the environment or to meet the multi-purposes as fore mentioned.

The rigid buoyant base 60′ has a rigid base 64, fiberglass board 648, and a goal 40C′. The rigid base 64 has a hollow interior 644 and is made of fiberglass or other rigid buoyant material. The rigid base 64 has a cross section selected from a group consisting of a circle, oval, square, rectangle, and polygon. Corners of the rigid base 64 are rounded so they will not hurt players.

A top of the rigid base 64 is glued to the fiberglass board 648. The fiberglass board 648 is flat and rigid and has a shape and center hole corresponding with the cross section of the rigid base 64.

A goal base 44C′ of the goal 40C′ is connected to the rigid base 64 by connecting the goal base 44C′ of the goal 40C′ to the fiberglass board 648. Screws 666 are used to penetrate the base of the goal and the fiberglass board 648. The screws 666 will protrude into the interior 644 of the rigid base 64 so rigid base 64 does not get screwed.

The four corners of a bottom of the rigid base 64 are connected to a corresponding anchor 68′ in the water. The rigid buoyant base 60′ is configured to have different heights and dimensions to suit the game requirements.

C-Areas

FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate two C-areas 50. A C-area 50 is a fenced area defining a channel that covers an area of the field located in front the goals. The C-area 50 is shown as a rectangular area, but they can be any suitable shape. The C-area 50 channels and leads G-players (trained dogs) to run parallel to the goals, so that the G-players can jump and catch the ball. The C-area 50 is about 0.8 meter, and in FIG. 14 the C-areas 50 are show having a width of four goals. The C-area 50 can have any suitable width. The C-area 50 has fences set up along four sides of the rectangular area to block the G-players from going outside of the C-area 50. The fences of the C-area 50 are made of translucent plastic strips and posts, which's height is about the height of the G-players.

The C-area 50 positioned between the at least one launch 20 and the at least one goal 40. Each C-area 50 is a fenced area and has a rectangle shape having a predetermined width and length.

Field Layouts

There are three field layouts—Layout 1 for team play (FIG. 14), Layout 2 for individual, small group or team play (FIG. 15), and Layout 3 for water play (FIG. 16). Each of the three field layouts can be configured to suit various fields and to meet all kinds of game requirements.

a) Field Layout 1 for Team Play

FIG. 14 is a plan view of the field layout 1 for team play and illustrates the locations of the equipment kit, the areas and the boundaries that how players move around.

In field layout 1, a field 110 is laid out on a field area 100. The field area 100 is an area of land covered with material selected from a group consisting of natural growth, grass, artificial turf, dirt, sand, and a combination thereof.

The field 110 has two goal lines 112 that are 72 m long, two side lines 114 that are 120 m long, and one middle line 116. The field 110 is symmetrical and has two identical sides 114. The field 110 is divided by the middle line 116. The middle line 116 is located between the two goal lines 112 and has opposing ends that extend to the two side lines 114. A circle 118 is located in a center portion of the middle line 116. The circle 118 is where the game starts and where the game resumes after a goal is scored. Two teams change sides for the second half of the game.

The Field 110 includes eight goals 40B, eight batting circles 130, and eight batting areas 140. The goals 40B are illustrated in FIGS. 7-9. Four goals are located on a first goal line 112 of the two goal lines 112 and four goals are located on a second goal line 112 of the two goal lines 112. Each batting circle 130 of the eight batting circles 130 is spaced apart from the corresponding goal line 112 and aligns with a corresponding goal 40B. Each batting circle 130 has a batting point 135. Each batting area 140 extends from the corresponding batting circle 130 to the at least one goal 40B.

As shown in FIG. 14, there are two different batting circle locations. Four batting circles 130 are located at each end of the field 110. The two inner batting circles 130 are located closer to a center of the field 110 and are positioned a distance that is closer to the corresponding goals 40B, and the two outer batting circles 130 are located closer to a side line 114 of the field 110 and are positioned a distance that is farther away from the corresponding goals 40B.

Each batting circle 130 has one launch (see FIG. 1) and one bat (see FIG. 11) set up in the center thereof. Each end of the field has 4 batting areas 140.

The C-area 50 is marked as an rectangular area located right in front of the goal line. C-area 50 is a fenced channel where G-players (trained dogs, Grey Haunt or other breeds) run, jump and catch the ball. The C-area has a width of about 0.8 meter, and its length covers four goals. Each C-area has fences set up along the four sides of the rectangular area to block G-players from going outside. During play, the C-area leads G-players to run parallel to the goal and catch the ball to prevent a goal from being made. The fence uses translucent plastic strips and posts. The C-area has a height that is about an average height of the G-players.

The dimensions of the field 110, the quantity of the goals 40B, the batting circles 130, the batting areas 140, and/or the quantity and the dimensions of the equipment deployed on the field 110, may vary, depending on the size of the field and on the game requirements. Field layout 1 is not limited to the dimensions and quantities that are illustrated in FIG. 14.

As shown in FIG. 14, the field layout 1 for a ball game includes a field area 100 defining a field 110, at least one goal 40, at least one batting circle 130, and a batting area 140 extending from the batting circle 130 to the at least one goal 40. The field 110 includes a ball 10 and a bat 30 located in the at least one batting circle 130. The field 110 includes a launch 20 located in the at least one batting circle 130. The field 110 includes at least one C-area 50, the at least one C-area 50 is located between the at least one goal 40 and the at least one batting circle 130, each said at least one C-area 50 is a fenced area and has a predetermined width and length. The at least one batting area 140 has a width equal to a diameter of the at least one batting circle 130. The field 110 has at least one goal line 112 and two side lines 114, each opposing end of the at least one goal line 112 engages a corresponding end of the two side lines 114; a middle line 116 is spaced a predetermined distance from the at least one goal line 112 and opposing ends of the middle line 116 extend to the two side lines 114, a circle is located in a center portion of the middle line 116; the at least one goal 40 is located on the at least one goal line 112; and the at least one batting circle 130 being spaced a predetermined distance from the at least one goal line 112.

As shown in FIG. 14, the field layout 1 for a ball game includes at least one C-area 50, a length of the at least one C-area 50 is positioned parallel with the at least one goal line 112. The field 110 includes at least one batting line 120 located between the middle line 116 and the at least one goal line 112, the at least one batting circle 130 being located on the at least one batting line 120. The at least one batting line 120 includes at least two batting lines 120 including at least one first batting line 120 and at least one second batting line 120, the at least one first batting line 120 is located on a first end of the field 110 and at least one second batting line 120 is located on a second end of the field 110.

As shown in FIG. 14, the at least one first batting line 120 includes a predetermined number of first batting lines 120 and the at least one second batting line 120 includes a predetermined number of second batting lines 120, the said at least one batting circle 130 includes a predetermined number of batting circles 130 located on the predetermined number of first batting lines 120 and the predetermined number of second batting lines 120 respectively. The at least one goal line 112 and the at least one batting line 120 are selected from a group of lines consisting of straight lines, wavy lines, curved lines, zig zag lines, castle lines, step-up step-down lines, cloud lines, shark lines, mountain lines, and angled lines. The at least one batting line 120 is spaced a predetermined distance from the at least one goal line 112, the predetermined distance is selected from a group of distances consisting of 6 meters, 9 meters, 12 meters, 15 meters, and 18 meters from the at least one goal line 112. The predetermined distance can be any distance that is suitable for a particular game. The at least one batting area 140 has a width equal to a diameter of the at least one batting circle 130.

b) Field Layout 2 for Individual, Small Group or Team Play

FIG. 15 is a plan view of the field layout 2 for individual, small group or team play and illustrates the locations of the equipment kit, the areas and boundaries that how players move around.

In field layout 2, a field 210 is laid out on a field area 200. The field area 200 is an area selected from a group consisting of land and water. The field area is a area of land covered with material selected from a group consisting of natural growth, grass, artificial turf, dirt, sand, and a combination thereof.

The field 210 includes at least one goal line 212 located at an end of the field 210, at least one batting line 220 spaced apart from the at least one goal line 212, and at least one vertical goal line 240, an end of the at least one vertical goal line 240 is located on the at least one goal line 212 and defines a goal location 250, the at least one vertical goal line 240 intersects the at least one batting line 220 and defines a location of a batting circle 230.

As shown in FIG. 15, the field 210 has one goal line 212, one vertical middle line 242, twelve vertical goal lines 240, twelve goals 40, 40′, 40A, 40A′ positioned along the goal line 212. The twelve goals 40, 40′, 40A, 40A′ can include six rotatable goals 40′, 40A′ on a right of the vertical middle line 242, and six non-rotating goals 40, 40A on a left of the vertical middle line 242. The diameters of the hoop 42, 42′, 42A, 42A′ can vary from 0.25 m to 1.5 m, increasing incrementally. The diameters of the goals 40, 40′, 40A, 40A′ can be smaller near a side of the field 210 and larger near the vertical middle line 242, smaller near the vertical middle line 242 and larger near the side of the field 210, or a non-uniform mixture of alternating diameter sizes. The diameters of the hoop 42, 42′, 42A, 42A′ of the goals 40, 40′, 40A, 40A′ can be any suitable diameter to meet the requirements of a game.

A C-area 50′ may be set up in the field 210, if G-players are engaged for goal keeping. In FIG. 15, the C-area 50′ is marked as a rectangular part of the field 210 located right in front of the goal line 212. The C-area 50′ is a fenced channel, as described herein.

As shown in FIG. 15, the field 210 has five batting lines 220, the distances between the batting lines 220 and the goal line 212 ranges from 6 m, 9 m, 12 m, 15 m, to 18 m respectively. There are 60 batting circles 230. Each of the 60 batting circles 230 is located at a intersection between a batting line 220 and a vertical goal line 240.

Field layout 2 has many variations. The goal line 212, the batting lines 220, the vertical goal lines 240, and the vertical middle line 242 can be curved, or in any irregular shapes, and their lengths may vary. The batting circles 230 can be located between the goals 40, 40′, 40A, 40A′. The number of the batting circles 230, the distances between the batting lines 220 and the goal line 212, and all other measurements may change, depending on the size of the field, and the requirements of the game. The field 210 can have two side lines 214, each opposing end of the at least one goal line 212 engaging a corresponding end of each sideline of the two side lines 214 to define a width of the field 210. The field 210 can have middle line and a center circle. In other words, field layout 2 comprises all variations that are not illustrated in the FIG. 15.

As shown in FIG. 15, the field 210 has a C-area 50 located between the at least one goal line 212 and the at least one batting line 220, the C-area 50 is a fenced area and has a rectangular shape having a predetermined width and length. The length of the C-area 50 is positioned parallel with the goal line 212.

The at least one batting line 220 includes five batting lines 220 and the at least one vertical goal line 240 includes twelve vertical goal lines 240 and define twelve goal locations 250 and sixty batting circles 230. The five batting lines 220 are respectively spaced a predetermined distance from the at least one goal line 212.

The field 210 has a middle vertical line 242 located in a middle of the twelve vertical goal lines 240. The middle vertical line 242 and the vertical goal lines 240 are positioned perpendicular to the goal line 212.

The at least one goal line 212, the at least one batting line 220 and the at least one vertical goal lines 240 are selected from a group of lines consisting of straight lines, wavy lines, curved lines, zig zag lines, castle lines, step-up step-down lines, cloud lines, shark lines, mountain lines, and angled lines.

c) Layout 3 for Water Play

FIG. 16 is a plan view of field layout 3 for water play. Field layout 3 is a simple version of field layout 2 shown in FIG. 15. In field layout 3, a field 310 is laid out on a field area 300. The field area 300 is an area of water.

The field layout 3 is configured for the game played on water. The field 310 has a goal line 312 that can extend any predetermined length to meet the game requirement, and six goals 40C, 40C′, or any predetermined number of goals 40C, 40C′. The goal line 312 does not have to be straight, it may be curved, or have any other shape. The distances between any two goals can be any predetermined distance.

Each goal 40C, 40C′ has a hoop 42C, 42C′ with a diameter. The diameters of the hoop 42C, 42C′ can vary from 1.0 m to 3.5 m, increasing incrementally. The diameters of the goals 40C, 40C′ can be smaller near a middle of the goal line 312 and larger at opposing ends of the goal line 312, smaller near the at the ends of the goal line 312 and larger near the middle of the goal line 312, or a non-uniform mixture of alternating diameter sizes. The diameters of the hoop 42C, 42C′ of the goals 40C, 40C′ can be any suitable diameter to meet the requirements of a game.

As shown in FIG. 16, batting lines 320, vertical goal lines 340, and the goal line 312 are selected from a group of lines consisting of straight lines, wavy lines, curved lines, zig zag lines, castle lines, step-up step-down lines, cloud lines, shark lines, mountain lines, irregular shaped lines, and angled lines. The quantity of the batting lines 320, the distances between the batting lines 320 and the goal line 312, and all other measurements are variable, depending on the game and/or field requirement.

Batting circles 330 can be set up at the intersection of the batting lines 320 and the vertical goal lines 340. The batting lines 320 are spaced apart from the goals 40C, 40C′ different distances varying from 10 m to 60 m, or and suitable distance. The vertical goal lines 340 are positioned perpendicular to the goal line 312.

Methods Methods to Utilize the Equipment Kit and Layout 1

a) Field

The field surface can be natural grass or synthetic covering. It is marked with goal lines, batting circles, and batting areas, according to field layout 1 shown in FIG. 14.

b) Equipment Kit

The Equipment kit includes a ball 10 (one ball at a time), four goals 40B (see FIGS. 7-9) set up along each of the goal lines 112 located on opposing ends of the field 110, one launch 20 (see FIG. 1) set up at a center of each batting circle 330, one 1 bat (see FIG. 11) is located at the center of each batting circle 330, and one C-area located at each end of the field, if G-players (trained Grey Haunt or other breeds) are used to do the goal keeping.

c) Players

There are two teams, each team has 10 field players, 2 goalkeepers, or 2 goalkeepers with two G-players and a number of substitute players. Each goalkeeper or each G-player covers two goals.

d) Object

Two teams compete for a winner. The team that scores the most points wins.

e) Scoring

A goal is achieved only by hitting a ball 10 with a bat 30 from inside a chosen batting circle from any one of the four batting circles 130, which are located on an opponent's side. The ball 10 can be struck with the bat 30 while the ball 10 is in the air or is supported by the launch 40B. The goal is made when the ball 10 travels through the hoop 422B, and through the net 48. A goal is a one-point goal when the goal is made from one of the two inner batting circles 130, which are located closer to a center of the field 110 and positioned a distance that is closer to the corresponding goals 40B. A goal is a two point goal when the goal is made from one of the two outer batting circles 130, which are located closer to a side line 114 of the field 110 and positioned a distance that is farther away from the corresponding goals 40B.

f) Variations

The number of the players, the dimensions and the quantity of the equipment, and the dimensions and any quantities related to the field layout may vary, according to the size of the field, and the specific requirement of the game.

g) Methods to Utilize the Equipment and the Layout 1

-   1. Once the offensive team possesses the ball inside a batting     circle 130 selected from the two inner batting circles 130 and the     two outer batting circles 130, the defensive team players must leave     the batting area 140 immediately or in less than 3 seconds, and stay     outside of the batting area, until the ball is shot and has passed     by them. -   2. If the game is played with G-players, the offensive player can     attempt to score only within one chosen batting area 140. The     defensive goalkeepers guide the G-players to play the goalkeeper's     role. The defensive goalkeepers cannot touch the ball that is just     batted off the launch and still travelling in the air. The G-players     can be active only in C-areas 50. Their job is only to catch the     ball and prevent it from being scored. -   3. If no G-players are engaged, the offensive player can bat the     ball 10 from one batting circle 130, targeting any chosen goal 40B,     which does not have to be in the same batting area 140 where the     ball 10 is batted off. It is only goalkeepers who are allowed to     stay in the position to block the ball from scoring. All players     must leave and stay outside all batting areas 140 as soon as the     offensive team possesses the ball 10 in one batting circle 130. -   4. Field players can pass, dribble, and hold the ball. Field players     can hold and move the ball for 3 steps, but not longer for 3     seconds. -   5. Players are not allowed to move the ball with the knee or any     part under the knee. -   6. From any side lines, goal lines or the middle line, the ball can     be thrown in only by using double hands. -   7. The ball is not allowed to be passed between two players, without     the ball travelling in the air. -   8. Double dribbling and scooping the ball while dribbling is not     allowed. -   9. Stealing the ball by using intentional body contact is not     allowed. -   10. One player is not allowed to run into an opponent player, who     has already established his or her position. -   11. The game may have two halves, each half has 30 to 45 minutes,     with 10 minutes break in between. -   12. If the defensive team violates the rules in the batting circle     130, the penalty is to reward two chances to attempt a goal for the     offensive team. If the violation occurs outside of a batting circle     130 but within 5 meters of radius, the penalty is to reward     offensive team with a penalty launch (batting).

Methods to Utilize the Equipment Kit and Layout 2

a) Field

Field layout 2 (see FIG. 15) is suitable for various types of field. The field area 200 can be a stadium, a beach, a backyard, or an open ground/floor. The field 210 of the field area 200 can have a surface that is natural grass, sand, soil, or synthetic coverings. The field is marked with the goal line 212, batting circles 230 (all batting circles 230 are sequenced and marked with a number), and the vertical middle line 242.

b) Equipment Kit

The equipment kit includes a ball 10 having a diameter between 85 mm to 122 mm, a launch 20, a bat 30, a preset number of goals 42, 42′, 42A, 42A′ (see FIGS. 3-6) are set up along the goal line, including the stationary goals 42, 42A and the rotatable goals 42′, 42A′, and C-areas 50 (see FIG. 15) will be set up in front of the goals, if goal keeping G-players are used. The mini curve of the top of the launch 20 matches the curve of the ball 10. A launch 20 is set up inside each batting circle 230 or carried around by the player. The bat 30 is set up inside each batting circle or carried around by the player.

c) Players

A predetermined number of players team up with a predetermined number of G-players to play the game in a shift. G-players will be engaged to retrieve the ball, but may or may not be engaged to do the goal keeping. If no G-players are engaged to do the goal keeping, no goalkeepers are required in the game.

d) Object

The player with his or her G-player wins the game if the team gains the most goals within a time limit.

e) Scoring

A goal can be achieved only by batting the ball off the launch 20, which is located inside of a batting circle 230. It is a goal if the ball 10 enters through the hoop 422, 422′, 422A, 422A′ of the corresponding goal 42, 42′, 42A, 42A′.

f) Methods to Utilize the Equipment Kit and Layout 2

-   1. Attempting to score a goal, one offensive player bats the ball     off the launch 20, which must be placed inside of the batting circle     230. The offensive player guides his or her G-player run to retrieve     the ball from where it lands. -   2. Each offensive player walks between batting circles 230 following     a sequence of the batting circles 130, the offensive player must     attempt each every launch without skipping. Each goal can be     attempted only once, regardless of whether it is a goal or not. -   3. The offensive players are not allowed to touch the ball with any     part of his or her body, outside of a batting circle. Inside the     circle, the player picks up the ball, and place it on top of the     launch. -   4. The offensive G-player must retrieve and deliver the ball to the     inside of the next batting circle. -   5. The defensive player guides his or her defensive G-player, only     in the C-area, to catch the ball, preventing it from scoring a goal. -   6. If the goal keeping G-player (defensive) catches the ball, the     defensive player, may grab the ball from his or her G-player, the     defensive player can throw the ball away, in any direction, as far     as it goes. -   7. The G-player (defensive) can be active only within the C-area. -   8. The defensive player cannot catch the ball, that is batted off     the launch still traveling in the air. He or she are not allowed to     catch the ball that the goalkeeping G-player has missed out. -   9. When the offensive player finishes all of the batting circles,     together with the G-players, he or she shifts to play the opposite     role. -   10. If there is no G-players engaged to play, then there is no need     for any goalkeeper, and the game does not have a defense team. -   11. The quantity and the size of the equipment, the number of     players and G-players, the dimensions of the field layout, all are     changeable, depending on the size of the field and the requirement     of the game.

Methods to Utilize the Equipment Kit and Layout 3 on Water

a) Field

The sport can be played in the ocean, at a lake, or along a river. According to field layout 3 shown in FIG. 16, the field 310 will be marked with floats, colorful balloons, and inflatable floating base 60 or rigid buoyant base 60′, with the goals 40C, 40C′ (see FIGS. 10 and 10A) located thereon, that are anchored in the water.

b) Equipment Kit

The equipment kits has a ball 10 with a diameter between 85 mm to 142 mm, a launch 20′, a bat 30, a center (batting points) of thirty batting circles 330 sequenced and marked with a balloon or a float with a number, and six goals 40C, 40C′. The launch 20′ and the bat 30 are set up on each contesting boat. The launch 20′ has a heavy base to stabilize the launch. The replaceable top of the launch 20 (see FIG. 1) is replaced with the ball support 22′ of the launch 20′ that has claws (see FIG. 2), that can hold the ball 10 stably in windy conditions.

The six goals, including the stationary goals and the rotatable goals, are set up on the inflatable floating base 60 or rigid buoyant base 60′ or the goals maybe put on the boats (hired or purchased), along the goal line 312. The six goals 40C, 40C′ have hoops with diameter diameters that are 1 m, 1.5 m, 2 m, 2.5 m, 3 m, and 3.5 m, which is an incremental range.

The equipment kits can include a basket 74 connected to a marine drone 70, if a drone 70 is used (see FIG. 13). The boats, hired or purchased for the contests, maybe sail boats, or manual rowing boats, or motor boats. The equipment kits can also include life jackets.

c) Players

A predetermined number of players team up, maybe equipped with a marine drone, to play the game on board of a boat.

d) Object

The team (boat) wins the game if the team gains the most goals within a time limit.

e) Scoring

A goal can be scored only by batting the ball off the launch 22′, located at a batting circle 330. It is a goal if the ball goes through the hoop of the goal.

f) Methods to Utilize the Equipment Kit and the Layout 3

-   1. Each team drives or row (with an oar) the boat to or between each     batting point. -   2. Attempting to score a goal, from a boat, one player bats the ball     off the launch 20′, from within a batting circle 330. -   3. Follow the sequence of the batting circles 330, each boat must     attempt every batting circle 330, only once, regardless of whether     or not it is a goal. -   4. After the ball 10 lands on the water, the ball 10 may be     retrieved by a marine drone 70 with a basket 74 (see FIG. 13), which     is remotely controlled by a player in a boat. The retrieval     operation to maneuver the drone 70 becomes part of the competitive     game. Alternatively, the team rows, sails, or drives the boat to     retrieve the ball 10 off the water and back to the boat. -   5. The quantity and the dimensions of the equipment, the batting     points, the number of boats, players or goals (repeating the certain     range, for example, the incremental range: 1.5 m-3.5 m), the     dimensions of the field layout, all are variable, depending on the     size of the field and the requirement of the game.

Methods—Ball Game Equipment Kit and Layout 1

A method for playing a ball game that includes the steps of:

-   -   a. selecting a ball game equipment kit including a ball 10, a         bat 30, and, at least two goals 40, each goal 40 of the at least         two goals 40 has a hoop 42;     -   b. selecting a field area 100;     -   c. defining a field on the field area 100 by establishing two         goal lines 112 and two side lines 114 on the field and         positioning opposing ends of the two goal lines 112 to engage         corresponding ends of the two side lines 114 to define the         field;     -   d. defining a middle line between the two goal lines 112 and a         circle 118 located in a center portion of the middle line 116,         the middle line 116 has opposing ends that extend to the two         side lines 114;     -   e. positioning one said goal 40 of the at least two goals 40 on         each goal line 112 of the two goal lines 112;     -   f. establishing at least two batting circles 130, each batting         circle 130 of the at least two batting circles 130 is spaced         apart a predetermined distance from each said goal line 112 of         the two goal lines 112;     -   g. utilizing the bat 30 to hit the ball 10 from one said batting         circle 130 of the at least two batting circles 130 and through         the hoop 42 of a corresponding goal 40 of the at least two goals         40.

In the selecting step a., the ball game equipment kit includes at least one launch 20 for positioning the ball 10, and, in the utilizing step g., positioning the at least one launch 20 in a corresponding batting circle 130 of the at least two batting circles 130, utilizing the bat 30 to hit the ball 10 from a striking location through the hoop 42 of the at least one goal 40, the striking location is selected from a group consisting of the ball 10 being tossed into the air and the ball 10 being positioned on the at least one launch 20.

In the selecting step a., the at least one launch 20 includes a predetermined number of launches 20, and, in the positioning step d., positioning each launch 20 of the predetermined number of launches 20 the predetermined distance from the at least one goal 40 respectively, the predetermined distance being selected from a group consisting of a same distance, different distances, and a combination thereof.

In the selecting step a., the at least one launch 20 includes a predetermined number of launches 20 and the at least one goal 40 includes a predetermined number of goals 40.

In the selecting step a., the predetermined number of launches 20 includes a number of launches 20 that is greater that a number of goals 40 of the predetermined number of goals 40.

In the selecting step a., the predetermined number of launches 20 includes a number of launches 20 that is equal to a number of goals 40 of the predetermined number of goals 40.

In the selecting step a., the at least one goal 40 includes a net 48 connected to the hoop 42.

In the selecting step b., the field area 100 is a area of land covered with material selected from a group consisting of natural growth, grass, artificial turf, dirt, sand, and a combination thereof.

In the utilizing step g., utilizing a goalkeeper positioned between each said batting circle 130 of the at least two batting circles 130 and a corresponding goal line 112 of the two goal lines 112 respectively to block the ball 10.

In the selecting step a., the game kit further comprising two C-areas 50, one C-area 50 of the two C-areas 50 being positioned between each said batting circle 130 of the at least two batting circles 130 and a corresponding goal line 112 of the two goal lines 112 respectively.

In the utilizing step g., utilizing a C-area goalkeeper located in the C-area 50 to block the ball 10, the C-area goalkeeper is a dog.

In the utilizing step g., when an offensive player enters a selected batting circle 130 of the at least two batting circles 130 and the offensive player has the bat 30 and the ball 10, defensive players are prohibited from entering the selected batting circle 130.

Methods—Ball Game Equipment Kit and Layout 2

A method for playing a ball game including the steps of:

-   -   a. selecting a ball game equipment kit including a ball 10, at         least one launch 20 to position the ball 10, a bat 30, and at         least one goal 40 having a hoop 42;     -   b. selecting a field area 200;     -   c. positioning the at least one goal 40 on the field area 200;     -   d. positioning the at least one launch 20 a predetermined         distance from the at least one goal 40;     -   e. utilizing the bat 30 to hit the ball 10 from a striking         location through the hoop 42 of the at least one goal 40, the         striking location is selected from a group consisting of the         ball 10 being tossed into the air and the ball 10 being         positioned on the at least one launch 20.

In the selecting step a., the at least one launch 20 includes a predetermined number of launches 20, and, in the positioning step d., positioning each launch 20 of the predetermined number of launches 20 the predetermined distance from the at least one goal 40 respectively, the predetermined distance being selected from a group consisting of a same distance, different distances, and a combination thereof.

In the selecting step a., the at least one launch 20 includes a predetermined number of launches 20 and the at least one goal 40 includes a predetermined number of goals 40.

In the selecting step a., the predetermined number of launches 20 includes a number of launches 20 that is greater that a number of goals 40 of the predetermined number of goals 40.

In the selecting step a., the predetermined number of launches 20 includes a number of launches 20 that is equal to a number of goals 40 of the predetermined number of goals 40.

In the selecting step a., the at least one goal 40 includes a net 48 connected to the hoop 42.

In the selecting step b., the field area 200 is a area of land covered with material selected from a group consisting of natural growth, grass, artificial turf, dirt, sand, and a combination thereof.

In the utilizing step e., utilizing a ball 10 retriever for retrieving the ball 10, the ball 10 retriever is selected from a group consisting of a person and a dog.

In the utilizing step e., utilizing a goalkeeper positioned between the at least one launch 20 and the at least one goal to block the ball 10.

In the selecting step a., the game kit further comprising a C-area 50, wherein the C-area 50 is positioned between the at least one launch 20 and the at least one goal 40, the C-area 50 is a fenced area and has a rectangular shape having a predetermined width and length.

In the utilizing step e., utilizing a C-area goalkeeper located in the C-area 50 to block the ball 10, the C-area goalkeeper is a dog.

In the utilizing step f., when an offensive player enters the at least one batting circle and the offensive player has the bat, defensive players are prohibited from entering or staying inside the at least one batting circle.

In the utilizing step f., when an offensive player enters a selected batting circle of the at least one batting circle and the offensive player has the bat, the batting area will be utilized as a restricted area limiting which player is allowed to be inside of the selected batting circle.

All of descriptions stated above include many specificities, which are just examples representing the preferred embodiments, layouts and methods to utilize them. The sport of the present invention is not limited to these examples or representations or descriptions. The scope of the disclosure should not be determined by the embodiments, layouts and methods illustrated. It should include all variations that are not illustrated. 

1. A field layout for a ball game comprising: at least one goal line located on a field area; at least one batting line spaced apart from the at least one goal line a predetermined distance; at least one vertical goal line, an end of the at least one vertical goal line is located on the at least one goal line and defines at least one goal location; the at least one vertical goal line intersects the at least one batting line and defines a location of at least one batting circle and at least one batting area; wherein the at least one goal line, the at least one batting line, the at least one batting circle, the at least one batting area, the at least one goal location define a field for an equipment kit to be positioned.
 2. The field layout according to claim 1, wherein the at least one batting circle includes at least two batting circles, each said batting circle of the at least two batting circles is spaced apart a predetermined distance from the at least one goal line, the predetermined distance being selected from a group consisting of a same distance, different distances, and a combination thereof.
 3. The field layout according to claim 1, wherein at least one batting area extends from the at least one batting circle to the at least one goal line, the at least one batting area has a width equal to a diameter of the at least one batting circle.
 4. The field layout according to claim 1, further comprising two side lines, a middle line, and at least one goal, the at least one goal line includes two goal lines, the middle line is located between the two goal lines and has opposing ends that extend to the two side lines respectively, a circle is located in a center portion of the middle line; the at least one goal includes at least two goals, one said goal of the at least two goals is located on each goal line of the at least two goal lines; the at least one batting circle includes at least two batting circles, one said batting circle of the at least two batting circles is spaced a predetermined distance from each goal line of the at least two goal lines; the at least one batting line includes at least two batting lines, at least one batting line of the at least two batting lines is located between the middle line and each said goal line of the two goal lines respectively, at least one batting circle of the at least two batting circles is located on one said batting line of the at least two batting lines; wherein the at least two batting lines include at least one first batting line and at least one second batting line, the at least one first batting line is located on a first end of the field and at least one second batting line is located on a second end of the field. wherein the at least one first batting line includes a predetermined number of first batting lines and the at least one second batting line includes a predetermined number of second batting lines, each batting line of the predetermined number of first batting lines and the predetermined number of second batting lines has a predetermined number of said batting circles.
 5. The field layout according to claim 4, wherein the at least one goal includes eight goals, and the at least two goal lines includes a first goal line and a second goal line, four goals being located on the first goal line and four goals being located on the second goal line, and the at least one batting circle includes eight batting circles, four batting circles spaced apart from the first goal line and four batting circles spaced apart from the second goal line.
 6. The field layout according to claim 1, further comprising at least one C-area located between the at least one batting circle and the at least one goal, the C-area is a fenced area and is utilized to set boundaries within which a trained dog will serve as goalkeeper.
 7. The field layout according to claim 1, wherein the field area is an area selected from a group consisting of land and water, when the field area is land, the field area is a area of land covered with material selected from a group consisting of natural growth, grass, artificial turf, dirt, sand, and a combination thereof.
 8. The field layout according to claim 1, wherein the at least one goal line and the at least one batting line are selected from a group of lines consisting of straight lines, wavy lines, curved lines, zig zag lines, castle lines, step-up step-down lines, cloud lines, shark lines, mountain lines, and angled lines.
 9. A ball game equipment kit comprising: a ball; at least one launch to position the ball; a bat; and at least one goal having a hoop, the hoop has an open interior having a predetermined diameter; wherein the hoop of the at least one goal is positioned in a position selected from a fixed vertical position, a rotating vertical position, a fixed horizontal position, and a rotating horizontal position; wherein the open interior of the hoop has a cross section having a shape selected from a group consisting of a circle, oval, square, rectangle, and polygon; wherein the bat is used to hit the ball from a striking location through the hoop of the at least one goal, the striking location is selected from a group consisting of the ball being tossed into the air and the ball being positioned on the at least one launch.
 10. The ball game equipment kit according to claim 9, further comprising a C-area positioned between the at least one launch and the at least one goal, the C-area is a fenced area and is utilized to set boundaries within which a trained dog will serve as goalkeeper.
 11. The ball game equipment kit according to claim 9, wherein the at least one launch includes a ball support suitable to hold the ball in a predetermined position, a base, and a height adjustment part connected between the ball support and the base, the height adjustment part selectively adjusts a height of the ball support between a lower position and a higher position; wherein the ball support is selected from a group consisting of a first ball support have a concaved surface with a diameter corresponding to a shape of the ball and a second ball support having a plurality of arms extending outwardly, each arm of the plurality of arms has a sphere connected to an outer end thereof; wherein the ball support is made of a resilient material; wherein the launch has a leveling mechanism that enables the ball support to be maintained in an upright position even when the launch is on the un-level ground.
 12. The ball game equipment kit according to claim 9, further comprising a floating base connected to a goal base of the at least one goal, the floating base being selected from a group consisting of an inflatable base and a rigid base made of a floatable material, the floating base has a cross section selected from a group consisting of a circle, oval, square, rectangle, and polygon.
 13. The ball game equipment kit according to claim 9, wherein the at least one goal includes a predetermined number of goals, the hoop of each said goal of the predetermined number of goals has an open interior having a predetermined diameter, the predetermined diameter of the open interior of each said hoop is selected from a group consisting of same diameters, different diameters, or a combination thereof.
 14. The ball game equipment kit according to claim 9, further comprising a motor connected to the hoop, the motor rotating the hoop at a predetermined speed selected from a group consisting of a fixed speed and a variable speed.
 15. The ball game equipment kit according to claim 9, further comprising a drone and a basket located below the drone, the basket being capable of retrieving the ball from water, the drone is a marine drone having at least one float, the basket is connected to the drone by a pole.
 16. A method for playing a ball game comprising the steps of: a. selecting a ball game equipment kit including a ball, at least one launch to position the ball, a bat, and at least one goal having a hoop; b. selecting a field area having a predetermined field layout, the predetermined field layout having at least one launch and a batting circle; c. positioning the at least one goal on the field area according to the predetermined field layout; d. positioning the at least one launch a predetermined distance from the at least one goal according to the predetermined field layout; e. passing the ball between players, the players must use at least one hand to pass the ball; and f. utilizing the bat to hit the ball from a striking location through the hoop of the at least one goal, the striking location is selected from a group consisting of the ball being tossed into the air and the ball being positioned on the at least one launch; wherein the bat and the at least one launch are utilized only within the batting circle.
 17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, in the utilizing step f., utilizing a ball retriever for retrieving the ball, the ball retriever is selected from a group consisting of a person and a dog.
 18. The method according to claim 16, wherein, in the utilizing step f., utilizing a goalkeeper positioned between the at least one launch and the at least one goal to block the ball, the goalkeeper is selected from a group consisting of a person and a dog, when the dog is the goalkeeper, the dog is located in a C-area.
 19. The method according to claim 16, wherein, in the utilizing step f., when an offensive player enters the at least one batting circle and the offensive player has the bat, defensive players are prohibited from entering or staying inside the at least one batting circle.
 20. The method according to claim 16, wherein, in the utilizing step f., when an offensive player enters a selected batting circle of the at least one batting circle and the offensive player has the bat, the at least one batting area will be utilized as a restricted area limiting which player is allowed to be inside of the at least one batting area. 